Helen and Dan’s wedding reception at the Embassy of New Zealand

One fun thing about DJing weddings in Washington DC is that you never know where you’ll end up. Last night I ended up at the Embassy of New Zealand (the neighbors include folks named Biden and Clinton) for Dan and Helen’s wedding celebration.

Dan and Helen actually got married the day before and this elegant-yet-super-low-key affair was a day-after celebration. Kiwis (New Zealanders) are known for their informality and this event was no exception. The only tuxedos were worn by the waiters. There was no first dance, no wedding party introductions, no cake cutting etc. The passed food was simple yet excellent (New Zealand lamb and shrimp were the highlights). As folks had come in from New Zealand, the UK, India, Buffalo, Atlanta, Sand Francisco and points between the first hour and a half was spent in deep conversations. The first music compliments I got were for songs from Caetano Veloso and Serge Gainsbourg which made this DJ very happy.

I also played some New Zealand artists—Crowded House, Fat Freddy’s Drop and the Flight of the Concords. The dance floor finally got going during hour two and stayed jumping until the end with one break for Helen’s father’s welcome toast.

The big songs of the night included “We Found Love” by Rihanna, “(I’m Gonna be) 500 Miles” by the Proclaimers, and “Suavemente” by Elvis Crespo. As the DJ was packing up folks were still carrying on the party in the embassy kitchen. A great night all around!

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